Sweet and Sour Ground Chicken
Sweet and Sour Ground Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the vibrant flavors of bell peppers, pineapple, and savory chicken in a deliciously tangy sauce. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to be served over rice or noodles, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners. The balance of sweetness and acidity is truly satisfying, and it’s a crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe!
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This Sweet and Sour Ground Chicken recipe is reliable for several reasons. First, it uses readily available ingredients that you can find at any grocery store. Second, the cooking process is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The key to its success lies in the balance of flavors, which creates a harmonious dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. Additionally, this recipe can easily be adapted to your taste preferences, ensuring that you can make it your own.
Shopping List
To make this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 green bell pepper, cored and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, cored and diced
- 1 small yellow onion, peeled and diced
- 1 (8-ounce) can chunked pineapple, juice saved
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon cold water
Tools of the Trade
To prepare Sweet and Sour Ground Chicken, you will need:
- Skillet or Wok: A large skillet or wok is essential for sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
- Cutting Board and Knife: Use these for chopping the bell peppers and onion.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the sauce ingredients.
Sweet and Sour Ground Chicken — Do This Next
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the saved pineapple juice, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, dark brown sugar, ketchup, low sodium soy sauce, cornstarch, and cold water. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add the ground chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s no longer pink and begins to brown.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Add the diced green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and yellow onion to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
Step 4: Incorporate the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to combine, ensuring everything is coated in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Allow the sauce to simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Serve
Once thickened, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Sweet and Sour Ground Chicken over cooked rice or noodles, and enjoy the vibrant flavors!
Allergy-Friendly Swaps
If you have specific dietary needs or allergies, consider these swaps:
- For gluten-free: Use gluten-free soy sauce.
- For sugar-free: Substitute dark brown sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia or erythritol.
- For a vegetarian option: Replace ground chicken with plant-based ground meat or tofu.
Watch Outs & How to Fix
While preparing Sweet and Sour Ground Chicken, here are some common pitfalls and how to fix them:
- Too Sweet: If the dish turns out too sweet for your liking, add a splash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of salt to balance the flavors.
- Too Sour: If it’s too sour, stir in a bit more brown sugar to mellow the acidity.
- Overcooked Vegetables: Be careful not to overcook the vegetables; they should remain slightly crisp for the best texture.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
Sweet and Sour Ground Chicken is a fantastic dish for meal prep and freezing. Here’s how to handle it:
- To freeze: Allow the dish to cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
- To reheat: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or pineapple juice to loosen the sauce.
Questions People Ask
Can I use other meats instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with ground turkey, beef, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer a vegetarian option.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes, sriracha, or diced jalapeños into the mix.
What can I serve with Sweet and Sour Ground Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You could also serve it with a side of fresh salad for a lighter option.
How long does Sweet and Sour Ground Chicken last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, Sweet and Sour Ground Chicken can last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
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The Last Word
Sweet and Sour Ground Chicken is a versatile and flavorful meal that can quickly become a favorite in your household. With its vibrant colors and delicious balance of sweet and sour, this dish is sure to impress at your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is bound to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a delightful meal that brings a taste of sweetness and tanginess into your life. Happy cooking!
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Sweet and Sour Ground Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the saved pineapple juice, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, dark brown sugar, ketchup, low sodium soy sauce, cornstarch, and cold water. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
- In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add the ground chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s no longer pink and begins to brown.
- Add the diced green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and yellow onion to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to combine, ensuring everything is coated in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once thickened, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Sweet and Sour Ground Chicken over cooked rice or noodles, and enjoy the vibrant flavors!
Notes
- For gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce.
- For sugar-free, substitute brown sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia.
- For vegetarian, replace ground chicken with plant-based meat or tofu.
